4th April 2014

Binky’s Spring Favourites

It’s time for a spring clean. We’ve shrugged off our winter coats – literally and metaphorically speaking – and we’re starting to enjoy fresh spring days. It’s easy to hibernate, beauty-wise, and stick with the same old look, same old products. But refreshing your kit makes total sense. After all, you don’t need heavy wind-blocking moisturisers in summer, or factor-50 hair oil throughout winter (well, not in the UK, at least!).

More than that, dark wintery days and fresh spring sunshine call for an entirely different make-up look, one that reflects the change of seasons. It’s also worth remembering that beauty products have a sell-by date. Perfumes lose their fragrance, lipsticks start to curdle and mascaras dry out over time.

So clear out all those stubby eye pencils and crumbling blushers. It’s time for a beauty reboot!

BINKY’S SPRING KIT

Guerlain Terracotta Skin Healthy Glow Foundation
You guys already know what a huge fan I am of Guerlain’s Terracotta bronzer. Well this little beauty gives the sheer coverage of a powder foundation, as well as adding that radiant glow the celebrated bronzer is famous for. It has a light, powdery texture and leaves your skin looking fresh, flawless and lightly sun-kissed. This is such a perfect product for me, you could call it Binky in a bottle!

Daniel Sandler – Watercolour Creme Bronzer in Riviera
You won’t be the least bit surprised to read this recommendation. I’ve already mentioned my bronzer addiction, and regular readers will know how highly I rate Daniel Sandler’s Watercolour products – so this is a no-brainer for me. I’ve been using it both to contour my face and also to give my sallow post-winter skin and instant healthy spring flush. It looks great on, and its creamy, blendable texture makes it a dream to apply. Be quick, though – this is a limited-edition product, and I for one am stocking up!

Bumble & Bumble – Thickening Creme Contour
Winter’s twin evils of cold weather and central heating can leave locks looking dry, dull and flat, so this beauty booster is a real spring savior. The lightweight formula adds body to hair, making it look full, textured and shiny. Perfect for those who love the volume and glamour of a professional blow-dry but without don’t want to look too “done”.

Bumble & Bumble – Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil
Another treat for your crowning glory, this is a real beauty insider’s favourite; you won’t find many pro stylists without a bottle in their kit – hence the name. This is a bit of a miracle product –it tames flyaway strands, reduces frizz, detangles the hair and strengthens against breakage. Its lightweight blend of oils combine to provide moisture, softness and shine, while added sunscreen filters and heat protection help combat dryness. Invest in a bottle and your hair will love you for it!

Clarins – Instant Light Eye Perfecting Base
The skin around your eyes is incredibly delicate, which explains why it’s the first area to show up signs of ageing, or simply tell the world when you’re tired, run-down and under the weather. Moisturisers and plumpers will look after the under-eye area, and this fabulous formulation attends to your lids, camouflaging shadows and creating a flawless base for your make-up, ensuring eye shadow lasts longer. Best of all, its anti-pollution complex will protect your delicate skin against free radicals, keeping you looking younger for longer!

bareMinerals – Ready Eyeshadow Palette in The Next Big Thing
I could tell you all about how this product harnesses the rejuvenating power of sea minerals to revitalise your eye area, reduce fine lines and combat puffiness. But all I need to say is take a look at the gorgeous shades inside! Delicate sorbet shades and subtle bronze hues are totally on-trend this season, which means your make-upwill be as fashion-forward as your wardrobe!

Daniel Sandler – Watercolour Blusher in Truth
I can never get enough of Daniel Sandler’s amazing Watercolour make-up products. I’ve already mentioned his limited-edition bronzer and this is the classic Watercolour Blusher. Thoroughly deserving of its cult status, it’s a dream to apply, easy to blend in and it lasts all day long. I wear the soft nude shade called Truth, and once you find your favourite colour, believe me, you’ll be hooked just like I am.

bareMinerals – Advanced Protection Tinted Moisturiser
Tinted moisturiser is a perfect springtime product. Once the weather warms up, I don’t fancy layering on loads of foundation, so this lightweight formula is ideal. It keeps my skin looks fresh, glowing and healthy, with an even tone and a hint of colour. It’s good for your complexion, too, offering SPF 20 protection and delivering essential antioxidants and minerals.

It’s truly great to have a good old clear-out and then to treat yourself to some gorgeous new kit. I feel so refreshed by the whole process, I reckon I’m already looking better even before I apply my new products!